Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method of operating a portable electrical energy storage device collection, charging and distribution machine, the method comprising: detecting presence of a portable electrical energy storage device configured to provide power to a vehicle; receiving vehicle diagnostic data regarding the vehicle from the portable electrical energy storage device, wherein the vehicle diagnostic data includes vehicle part information associated with a non-battery vehicle part of the vehicle that is determined to be replaced; based on the vehicle part information, generating availability information regarding available vehicle parts; and displaying the availability information at the collection, charging and distribution machine.
This invention relates to a system for managing portable electrical energy storage devices, such as batteries used in electric vehicles, and integrating vehicle diagnostics to enhance maintenance services. The problem addressed is the lack of integration between energy storage device management and vehicle maintenance, which can lead to inefficiencies in servicing electric vehicles. The system operates by first detecting the presence of a portable electrical energy storage device, such as a battery, that is configured to provide power to a vehicle. The device then receives vehicle diagnostic data from the portable energy storage device, which includes information about non-battery vehicle parts that require replacement. Using this diagnostic data, the system generates availability information for the identified vehicle parts, indicating whether they are in stock or can be sourced. This availability information is then displayed at the collection, charging, and distribution machine, allowing users to quickly assess part availability and streamline maintenance processes. The system combines energy storage management with diagnostic services, improving convenience and efficiency for vehicle owners.
2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising detecting presence of the portable electrical energy storage device in the collection, charging and distribution machine.
A system and method for managing portable electrical energy storage devices, such as batteries or capacitors, in a collection, charging, and distribution machine. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently tracking and servicing portable energy storage devices to ensure availability and proper charging. The method involves detecting the presence of a portable electrical energy storage device within the machine. This detection enables the machine to identify when a device is inserted or removed, allowing for automated monitoring of device status, charging cycles, and inventory management. The system may include sensors or communication interfaces to verify the presence of the device, ensuring accurate tracking and preventing errors in charging or distribution processes. By detecting the device's presence, the machine can initiate or terminate charging operations, log usage data, and maintain an up-to-date inventory of available devices. This improves operational efficiency, reduces downtime, and ensures reliable energy storage device availability for users. The method may also integrate with other features, such as authentication or payment systems, to enhance security and user experience.
3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising detecting an operable physical connection between a diagnostic data storage system of the portable electrical energy storage device and the collection, charging and distribution machine once the portable electrical energy storage device is placed in the collection, charging and distribution machine.
This invention relates to systems for managing portable electrical energy storage devices, such as batteries, in a collection, charging, and distribution machine. The problem addressed is ensuring reliable data transfer and operational status verification when a portable energy storage device is inserted into the machine. The method involves detecting an operable physical connection between the diagnostic data storage system of the portable device and the machine. This detection confirms that the device is properly positioned for data exchange, charging, or distribution. The diagnostic data storage system may include sensors or memory modules that monitor the device's condition, such as charge level, temperature, or operational health. The machine uses this connection to verify the device's readiness for charging or deployment, ensuring efficient and safe energy management. The system may also include mechanisms to align or secure the device within the machine to maintain the connection during operation. This ensures accurate data collection and prevents disruptions during charging or distribution processes. The invention improves the reliability of energy storage device management in automated systems.
4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising detecting presence of the portable electrical energy storage device via a wireless signal received from the portable electrical energy storage device.
A system and method for managing portable electrical energy storage devices, such as batteries or power banks, in a charging or energy transfer network. The invention addresses the challenge of efficiently locating, identifying, and managing these devices within a network to optimize energy distribution and charging operations. The method involves detecting the presence of a portable electrical energy storage device using a wireless signal transmitted by the device. This detection allows the system to identify the device's location and status, enabling automated tracking, authentication, and energy transfer processes. The system may also include a network of charging stations or energy transfer points that communicate with the portable devices to facilitate secure and efficient energy transactions. The wireless signal may include identification data, energy capacity information, or other relevant parameters to ensure proper integration into the network. By leveraging wireless detection, the system enhances operational efficiency, reduces manual intervention, and improves the reliability of energy distribution in dynamic environments.
5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising receiving the vehicle diagnostic data from a memory device attached to the portable electrical energy storage device on which the vehicle diagnostic data is stored.
A system and method for vehicle diagnostics and energy storage management involves collecting and analyzing vehicle diagnostic data to optimize the use of portable electrical energy storage devices. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently managing vehicle diagnostics while leveraging portable energy storage solutions, such as batteries or capacitors, to support vehicle operations. The method includes monitoring vehicle performance metrics, such as battery health, energy consumption, and system faults, and storing this diagnostic data on a memory device integrated with the portable energy storage unit. The system retrieves this stored diagnostic data from the memory device to assess the vehicle's condition and determine the optimal use of the portable energy storage device. This ensures that the energy storage unit is utilized effectively, prolonging its lifespan and improving overall vehicle efficiency. The approach integrates diagnostic data collection, storage, and retrieval to enhance energy management in vehicles equipped with portable storage solutions.
6. The method of claim 1 , further comprising displaying the availability information on a display of the collection, charging and distribution machine.
A system and method for managing and distributing items, such as batteries, in a collection, charging, and distribution machine. The machine collects used items, charges them, and makes them available for distribution to users. The method includes tracking the availability of charged items within the machine, such as the number of available items or their readiness for distribution. The availability information is then displayed on a display integrated into the machine, allowing users to quickly determine whether items are ready for pickup. This improves user convenience by providing real-time status updates, reducing wait times, and ensuring efficient use of the machine's resources. The system may also include additional features, such as user authentication, transaction processing, and inventory management, to enhance security and operational efficiency. The display may show additional details, such as item types, charging progress, or estimated wait times, depending on the machine's capabilities. This solution addresses the need for transparent and efficient item distribution in automated systems.
7. The method of claim 6 , further comprising displaying the availability information on the display during a transaction at the collection, charging and distribution machine involving the portable electrical energy storage device.
This invention relates to systems for managing portable electrical energy storage devices, such as batteries or power packs, at collection, charging, and distribution machines. The problem addressed is the lack of real-time availability information for users interacting with these machines, which can lead to inefficiencies and user frustration when devices are not available for charging or distribution. The method involves tracking the availability status of portable electrical energy storage devices at a collection, charging, and distribution machine. This includes monitoring whether devices are present, charged, or ready for use. The system then displays this availability information on a display during a transaction, allowing users to quickly determine if devices are available for charging or retrieval. This real-time feedback improves user experience by reducing uncertainty and optimizing the use of the machines. The method may also involve integrating with a network to update availability status across multiple machines or user interfaces, ensuring consistent and accurate information. The display can show visual indicators, such as icons or text, to clearly communicate availability. This approach enhances the efficiency of energy storage device management in shared or public charging systems.
8. The method of claim 1 , further comprising communicating the availability information to a mobile device associated with the vehicle.
Technical Summary: This invention relates to vehicle availability management systems, specifically for tracking and communicating the status of vehicles in a fleet or shared mobility service. The problem addressed is the need for real-time visibility into vehicle availability, ensuring efficient utilization and reducing downtime. The system involves monitoring vehicle status data, such as location, operational state, and maintenance needs, through sensors or connectivity modules installed in the vehicles. This data is processed to determine whether a vehicle is available for use, in maintenance, or otherwise occupied. The availability information is then transmitted to a central server or database for aggregation and analysis. A key feature is the communication of this availability information to a mobile device associated with the vehicle. This allows users, such as drivers or fleet managers, to receive real-time updates on vehicle status via their smartphones or tablets. The mobile device may display alerts, notifications, or interactive maps showing available vehicles nearby. This ensures users can quickly locate and access vehicles, improving operational efficiency and user experience. The system may also integrate with scheduling or reservation platforms, enabling users to book available vehicles directly from their mobile devices. Additionally, the system can track usage patterns to optimize fleet distribution and maintenance scheduling. The overall goal is to enhance vehicle utilization, reduce idle time, and improve service reliability in shared mobility or fleet management applications.
9. The method of claim 1 , further comprising communicating the availability information to a server computing system.
A system and method for managing availability information in a distributed computing environment addresses the challenge of efficiently tracking and communicating resource availability across multiple devices and systems. The invention involves a process where a computing device monitors the availability status of one or more resources, such as processing power, memory, or network bandwidth. The device generates availability information based on this monitoring, which may include metrics like current usage levels, capacity, or predicted future availability. This information is then communicated to a central server computing system, which can aggregate and analyze the data to optimize resource allocation, load balancing, or scheduling tasks across the network. The server may also distribute the availability information to other devices or systems, enabling coordinated resource management. The method ensures real-time or near-real-time updates, allowing dynamic adjustments to resource utilization. This approach improves efficiency in distributed computing environments by providing a centralized view of resource availability, reducing bottlenecks, and enhancing overall system performance. The invention is particularly useful in cloud computing, data centers, or any system requiring dynamic resource allocation.
10. A non-transitory computer readable storage medium having computer executable instructions thereon that, when executed, cause a processor to: detect presence of a portable electrical energy storage device configured to provide power to a vehicle; receive vehicle diagnostic data regarding the vehicle from the portable electrical energy storage device, wherein the vehicle diagnostic data includes vehicle part information associated with a non-battery vehicle part of the vehicle that is determined to be replaced; based on the vehicle part information, generate availability information regarding available vehicle parts; and display the availability information at the collection, charging and distribution machine.
This invention relates to a system for managing portable electrical energy storage devices used to power vehicles, particularly focusing on vehicle diagnostics and part replacement. The system detects when a portable energy storage device is connected to a vehicle and receives diagnostic data from the device, including information about non-battery vehicle parts that need replacement. The system then generates availability information for the required replacement parts and displays this information at a collection, charging, and distribution machine. This allows users to quickly identify and access necessary vehicle parts, streamlining maintenance and repair processes. The system integrates energy storage management with vehicle diagnostics and part procurement, improving efficiency for electric vehicle owners and service providers. The invention ensures seamless interaction between the portable energy storage device, the vehicle, and the distribution machine, enhancing the overall user experience.
11. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 10 , wherein the computer executable instructions, when executed, further cause the processor to detect presence of the portable electrical energy storage device in the collection, charging and distribution machine.
A system for managing portable electrical energy storage devices, such as batteries, in a collection, charging, and distribution machine. The invention addresses the need for efficient tracking and management of these devices within automated systems, ensuring proper charging, storage, and distribution to users. The system includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium containing executable instructions that, when run by a processor, enable the machine to detect the presence of a portable energy storage device. This detection capability allows the system to monitor the inventory of devices, verify their status, and facilitate automated processes like charging or distribution. The instructions may also enable the processor to perform additional functions, such as identifying device characteristics, tracking usage, or coordinating with other system components. The detection mechanism ensures that the machine can accurately determine when a device is inserted or removed, enabling real-time management of the energy storage devices. This improves operational efficiency, reduces errors, and enhances the reliability of the charging and distribution process. The system is particularly useful in environments where automated energy storage management is critical, such as electric vehicle charging stations or renewable energy storage facilities.
12. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 10 , wherein the computer executable instructions, when executed, further cause the processor to receive the data from a memory device attached to the portable electrical energy storage device on which the vehicle diagnostic data is stored.
The invention relates to a system for managing and processing vehicle diagnostic data using a portable electrical energy storage device. The problem addressed is the need for efficient data transfer and processing of diagnostic information from vehicles, particularly in scenarios where traditional data storage or transmission methods may be impractical or inefficient. The system includes a portable electrical energy storage device equipped with a processor and a memory. The device is configured to execute computer instructions to receive vehicle diagnostic data from a memory device attached to the portable storage unit. This data may include various diagnostic metrics, error codes, or performance logs generated by the vehicle. The portable storage device processes this data to analyze vehicle health, identify potential issues, or generate maintenance recommendations. The system ensures that diagnostic data is securely stored and easily accessible for further analysis or transmission to external systems, such as cloud servers or diagnostic tools. This approach improves data portability and reduces reliance on fixed infrastructure, making it suitable for remote or mobile applications. The invention enhances vehicle maintenance efficiency by providing a flexible and scalable solution for diagnostic data management.
13. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 10 , wherein the computer executable instructions, when executed, further cause the processor to display the availability information on a display of the collection, charging and distribution machine.
This invention relates to a system for managing and displaying availability information for a collection, charging, and distribution machine, such as those used for reusable containers or devices. The machine collects used items, charges them (e.g., cleaning, sanitizing, or recharging), and distributes them to users. A key challenge is efficiently tracking and communicating the availability of items to users, ensuring smooth operation and user satisfaction. The system includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing executable instructions that, when executed by a processor, perform several functions. The instructions cause the processor to receive data indicating the availability of items within the machine, such as the number of available items, their status (e.g., charged, ready for distribution), and any operational constraints. The system processes this data to determine real-time availability and generates corresponding availability information, which may include visual or textual indicators (e.g., "Available," "Out of Stock," or "Low Stock"). The instructions further cause the processor to display this availability information on a display integrated into the machine. The display may show the current stock levels, estimated wait times for item retrieval, or instructions for users. This ensures users can quickly assess whether items are available before interacting with the machine, improving efficiency and reducing frustration. The system may also update the display dynamically as availability changes, providing real-time feedback. The invention enhances user experience by minimizing uncertainty and optimizing the distribution process.
14. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 13 , wherein the computer executable instructions, when executed, further cause the processor to display the availability information on the display during a transaction at the collection, charging and distribution machine involving the portable electrical energy storage device.
This invention relates to a system for managing portable electrical energy storage devices, such as batteries, at collection, charging, and distribution machines. The problem addressed is the lack of real-time availability information for users interacting with these machines, which can lead to inefficiencies and user frustration. The solution involves a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium containing executable instructions that, when run by a processor, enable the machine to display availability information for portable energy storage devices during a transaction. This includes showing whether devices are available for collection, charging, or distribution, ensuring users can make informed decisions. The system may also track device status, such as charge levels or maintenance needs, and update the display dynamically. The goal is to improve user experience and operational efficiency by providing transparent, up-to-date information at the point of interaction. The invention may integrate with broader energy management networks, allowing for centralized monitoring and control of multiple machines. The display can be part of the machine's interface or a connected device, ensuring users receive clear, actionable data during their transaction.
15. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 10 , wherein the computer executable instructions, when executed, further cause the processor to communicate the availability information to a mobile device associated with the vehicle.
16. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 10 , wherein the computer executable instructions, when executed, further cause the processor to communicate the availability information to a server computing system.
A system and method for managing and communicating availability information in a computing environment. The invention addresses the challenge of efficiently tracking and sharing resource availability across distributed systems, ensuring optimal resource utilization and minimizing downtime. The system includes a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing executable instructions. When executed, these instructions cause the processor to generate availability information for a computing resource, such as a server, storage device, or network component. The availability information may include details about the resource's current status, capacity, and operational state. The system further processes this information to determine whether the resource is available for use, considering factors like load, maintenance schedules, and error conditions. Additionally, the system communicates the availability information to a server computing system, enabling centralized monitoring, coordination, and decision-making. This communication may occur via network protocols, APIs, or other data exchange mechanisms, ensuring that the server computing system can dynamically adjust resource allocation based on real-time availability data. The invention enhances system efficiency by providing timely and accurate availability insights, reducing manual intervention and improving resource management in distributed environments.
17. A system comprising: a memory attached to a portable electrical energy storage device and configured to store vehicle diagnostic data; a processor configured to: receive the vehicle diagnostic data from the portable electrical energy storage device, wherein the vehicle diagnostic data includes vehicle part information associated with a non-battery vehicle part of the vehicle that is determined to be replaced; based on the vehicle part information, generate availability information regarding available vehicle parts; and display the availability information at the collection, charging and distribution machine.
This invention relates to a system for managing vehicle diagnostics and part replacement using a portable electrical energy storage device. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently identifying and procuring replacement parts for vehicles, particularly when the vehicle is not equipped with a battery or when the battery is non-functional. The system includes a memory attached to the portable energy storage device, which stores vehicle diagnostic data. This data includes information about vehicle parts that need replacement. A processor receives the diagnostic data from the device and analyzes it to determine the specific parts requiring replacement. Based on this analysis, the system generates availability information for the identified parts, including details on where and how to obtain them. The availability information is then displayed at a collection, charging, and distribution machine, which serves as an interface for users to access the data. This system streamlines the process of diagnosing vehicle issues and sourcing replacement parts, improving efficiency and convenience for vehicle maintenance.
18. The system of claim 17 , wherein the processor is further configured to detect presence of the portable electrical energy storage device in a collection, charging and distribution machine.
A system for managing portable electrical energy storage devices, such as batteries or power packs, includes a processor configured to monitor and control the collection, charging, and distribution of these devices. The system detects the presence of a portable energy storage device within a collection, charging, and distribution machine, which is designed to automate the handling of such devices. The machine may include mechanisms for physically receiving, storing, and dispensing the devices, as well as charging stations to replenish their energy levels. The processor may also track the state of charge, location, and operational status of each device to optimize distribution and ensure efficient energy management. This system is particularly useful in environments where portable energy storage is critical, such as electric vehicle charging networks, renewable energy storage solutions, or backup power systems. The detection of the device's presence in the machine enables automated processes for charging, inventory management, and user access, improving convenience and reliability for users. The system may further integrate with external networks to provide real-time data on device availability and charging status, enhancing overall energy distribution efficiency.
19. The system of claim 17 , wherein the processor is further configured to communicate the availability information to a mobile device associated with a vehicle.
A system for managing vehicle availability information includes a processor that collects and processes data related to the operational status of a vehicle, such as whether it is in use, parked, or undergoing maintenance. The system determines the vehicle's availability based on this data and communicates the availability status to a mobile device associated with the vehicle. This allows users or operators to remotely monitor the vehicle's status and make informed decisions about its use. The system may also integrate with other vehicle management features, such as scheduling, maintenance tracking, or user authentication, to provide a comprehensive solution for vehicle availability management. The communication with the mobile device ensures real-time updates, enabling efficient coordination and reducing downtime. This technology is particularly useful in fleet management, ride-sharing services, or any scenario where vehicle availability needs to be tracked and communicated dynamically.
20. The system of claim 17 , wherein the processor is further configured to display the availability information on a display of the collection, charging and distribution machine.
This invention relates to a system for managing and distributing portable energy storage devices, such as batteries or power packs, in a shared or rental environment. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently tracking, charging, and distributing these devices to users while ensuring availability and optimal utilization. The system includes a collection, charging, and distribution machine that automates the process of receiving used devices, recharging them, and making them available for user pickup. The machine is equipped with a processor that monitors the status of the devices, including their charge levels and operational readiness. The processor also manages user interactions, such as authentication, device selection, and transaction processing. To enhance user experience and operational efficiency, the processor is configured to display availability information on the machine's display, allowing users to quickly see which devices are ready for use. This feature helps users make informed decisions and reduces wait times by providing real-time updates on device availability. The system may also include additional components, such as sensors for monitoring device conditions, communication interfaces for remote management, and security features to prevent unauthorized access. The overall goal is to streamline the distribution of portable energy storage devices while ensuring reliability and convenience for users.
Unknown
January 28, 2020
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